Chris Paul Returns to Clippers for 21st and Likely Final NBA Season

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by Cristian Andal

Former Spurs guard Chris Paul. Photo: Getty Images.

Veteran point guard Chris Paul is reuniting with the LA Clippers for what is expected to be his 21st and final NBA season, according to agents Steven Heumann, Ty Sullivan, and Jessica Holtz of CAA, who confirmed the agreement to ESPN.

Now 40, Paul reportedly had interest from multiple teams—including the Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, and Charlotte Hornets—but ultimately chose the Clippers, prioritizing both title contention and proximity to his family in Los Angeles. Paul previously stated on The Pat McAfee Show that playing his final season near his loved ones was a key factor in his decision.

This move brings Paul back to the Clippers, where he spent six productive seasons from 2011 to 2017. During that span, he earned five All-Star selections and five All-NBA honors—the most in franchise history. He also dished out 4,023 assists, the highest total ever by a Clipper.

"Chris is one of the most influential players to ever wear a Clippers jersey, and it’s fitting that he returns for this stage of his journey," said Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank in a statement.

Paul joins a reloaded Clippers roster that has added key veterans this offseason, including Bradley Beal, John Collins, and Brook Lopez. The team had been in the market for a backup point guard, with discussions involving Malcolm Brogdon, but settled on Paul in the past week. The Clippers have also structured their salary cap to remain flexible for potential major acquisitions in the coming years.

"Chris is coming in as a backup point guard and is ready to contribute in any way Coach Tyronn Lue sees fit," Frank said. "He understands his role and wants to be part of something bigger."

Paul played all 82 games last season with the San Antonio Spurs, becoming the first player in NBA history to do so in his 20th season or later.

Chris Paul is back with the Clippers. Photo: Getty Images.

With star guard James Harden logging nearly 2,800 minutes last season at age 35, the Clippers view Paul as valuable support, especially as the team manages health and durability throughout an 82-game campaign and into the playoffs.

“Knowing your role is critical at this stage,” Frank emphasized.

Originally drafted fourth overall in 2005 by the then-New Orleans Hornets, Paul won Rookie of the Year and has since compiled 12,499 assists and 2,717 steals—ranking second all-time in both categories.